Love Animals? 8 Things to Ask Before you Buy a Pet Shop or Business

Love Animals? 8 Things to Know Before you Buy a Pet Shop or Business

If you’ve always dreamed of working with animals and owning your own business, buying a pet shop or pet-related business could be the perfect move. From retail stores selling pet supplies to grooming salons, doggy daycares, aquariums, and mobile grooming vans, there’s a wide variety of pet businesses to choose from across Australia.

According to the RSPCA, Australia is home to over 29 million pets, with more than 61% of households owning at least one. That’s a lot of furry (and feathery) friends,  and a lot of opportunities for small business owners. But if you’re thinking of buying a pet shop or animal-related business, it’s worth doing your reaearch and asking the important questions.

Here are 8 key things to think about before you buy that pet shop.

 

1. A Booming Industry with Room to Grow

 

Pet care isn’t just a passion project, it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry. Australians now spend over $33 billion a year on their pets, covering everything from premium food and vet care to grooming, toys, and accessories (RSPCA).

But as a buyer, you’ve got to ask: Where’s the money made, and how reliable is the income?

Service-based businesses like grooming or dog daycare often have better margins and repeat bookings. Retail shops can do well too, especially if they’ve got strong local support or online sales.

Check if the business has regular clients, solid profit, and the systems to support growth.

 

2. Are You Buying a Job or a Business?

 

It’s a good idea to look closely at how the business is run. Does the owner work full-time behind the counter, or is it managed with staff in place? Some buyers want a hands-on role, others are looking for something semi-passive.

Take this profitable dog grooming salon in Sydney  which is listed at $185,000, has experienced staff in place, and the owner isn’t tied to the day-to-day. If you’re buying something like that, you’re getting a business, not just a full-time job.

When thinking about how much pet related businesses sell for, you've got to remember that it can vary alot. Prices change depending on location, the type of operation, and what's included in the sale.

Small, owner-operated grooming salons or mobile dog wash businesses generally sell from $60,000 to $180,000, while larger pet stores and multi-service operations can range from $250,000 to over $600,000.

 

3. What’s Actually Included in the Sale?

 

It might sound obvious, but not every business sale includes the same stuff. Are you getting stock? Equipment? A fit-out? Or are those extras?

Some listings, like this Sunshine Coast pet store, come with a modern fit-out and over $1 million in annual sales. Others might offer the name and lease but require a full refresh.

Ask for an itemised list, and don’t assume anything, especially when it comes to expensive grooming tools, aquariums, or computer systems.

 

4. Independent vs Franchise - What’s the Better Fit?

 

There are pros and cons to both. Franchises like Petbarn, Just For Pets, and Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash give you national branding, systems, and support, which can be a big help if you’re new to business ownership.

But independent shops often mean higher profit margins and more control. You’re not paying ongoing franchise fees, and you can set your own direction. This pet supply business in Tamworth isn’t part of a franchise, so you’ve got more freedom to grow and brand it your way. These owners are offering training to the new owners during the transition period, so you won't be left scratching your head.

Think about what matters more to you , is it structure or flexibility?

 

5. Check the Setup and Equipment

 

Before you sign anything, inspect the fit-out and equipment. Are the grooming stations in good condition? Are the aquariums properly set up? Is everything clean, professional, and ready to go?

Look at things like grooming tables, tubs, dryers, storage systems, display shelving, fridges for pet food, or even aquarium filtration systems. 

Listings like the Sunshine Coast pet store mention a full setup, which saves you the stress (and cost) of upgrades. But not every business is turnkey. Replacing equipment can run into the thousands, so ask for an inventory and make sure it all works.

 

6. Staff and Animal Care Go Hand in Hand

 

The people make a big difference in this industry. Staff aren’t just sales assistants as they’re often trained in grooming, nutrition, or handling animals. Good staff create loyal customers and keep things running smoothly if you step away.

It’s also worth checking the business’s animal care standards. The RSPCA offers great guidelines on responsible pet care  and even if you’re not legally bound to them, following best practice builds trust with customers.

Find out if current staff are staying on, and if not, be prepared to recruit and train.

If you don't have much pet care experience yourself, it might be worth trying your best to retain the current staff. It's likely they will be critical in a smooth transition.

 

7. Is There a Loyal Customer Base?

 

Recurring revenue is one of the best things about pet businesses. If customers are coming in monthly for grooming, food, or dog daycare, that’s a steady stream of income. The stronger the customer base, the more stable the business.

Ask how many repeat clients the business has.

Does it offer subscriptions or memberships? Does it have a database or loyalty program? These are big wins.

For example, this pet and stockfeed store in Yarra Glen has operated for over a decade and serves a regular rural community and that kind of local loyalty is gold.

 

8. Why’s It Being Sold?

 

Don’t be afraid to ask the hard question, why is the business for sale? Is the owner retiring, relocating, or has the business slowed down? Pair that with a look at the financials. Are sales consistent? Is the rent manageable? Any major supplier or staff changes?

Businesses like this vet surgery in Brisbane, listed at $880,000 + SAV, are often sold by long-time owners who are ready to retire. That can be a great opportunity, but it’s up to you to ask the right questions and understand what you’re stepping into.

 

Buying a pet business is a big move, but if you’ve got the passion and the plan, it can be a rewarding and profitable business. Whether you’re after a grooming salon, retail store, or niche setup like an aquarium, the key is doing your homework.

Ask the right questions. Look at the numbers. Talk to the staff and check the setup. Because yes, loving animals is a great start, but loving a business that makes money?

Even better.

Tags: listicle buying small business guide

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